Managing new faces: How has the UK’s workforce changed?

There has been a marked change in the makeup of the UK’s workforce over the past generation that has led to the creation of different views. This means individuals coming into a job in the 21st century will approach it in a different way to how their parents did a number of years ago.

When it comes to new starters, firms need to make sure they are quickly up to speed with regards to brand ethos. Employees will not be able to properly represent their organisation if they do not have a good idea of what its unique selling point is. One way to get around this is to use branded items – such as polo shirts – to clarify this message. By giving new staff promotional products during their first week, it is easier to emphasise the key messages of the business.

Generation Y

Generation Y – typically defined as individuals born roughly between 1980 and 1995 – has a specific set of attributes and will approach working life differently from older generations. According to a whitepaper by 4imprint, they are tasks- and results-driven, reciprocate loyalty with employers, value a healthy work-life balance and prefer to place more emphasis on meaningful work than earnings.

Indeed, when compared to their parents and grandparents, they are 15 per cent more likely to have frequent job changes, ten per cent more focused on family life and nine per cent more educated. Because of this, managers may require a certain set of attributes – including communication and motivation skills – in order to deal with Generation Y workers.

The influence of technology

Arguably the biggest change between how companies operate now and ten to 15 years ago is the role of technology. Everything works at a faster pace, businesses are easily connected to the world and employees can be reached at any stage of the day. The popularity of the cloud means flexible working is a real option for many people, while important information can be accessed from almost any device.

This means today’s workforce is much more connected than previously thought possible. Commuters can check their emails on the way to work, research can be carried out on the internet and employees can find themselves having a digital relationship with each other. However, firms should not be afraid to learn from new staff, as they will likely bring something to the table the company has never seen before.

Communication is key

Making sure Generation Y employees are on the same page as the organisation is the best way to secure success. Whether it is tweets, Facebook posts or text messaging, these individuals are used to being in touch constantly. As such, managers should not be afraid to express their opinions to employees, while they may find it is useful to take on more of a mentor role than they would usually.

However, more than ever individuals need to have an open mind as far as technology is concerned. People no longer have to speak in-person or on the phone in order to catch up, as younger generations are more used to staying in touch through email.

What tips do you have for helping new workers bed in? Have you ever used promotional polo shirts to showcase your business ideals? If you would like to find out more information about branded items, please click here.